AE Works Evolves Leadership Structure to Drive Growth and Innovation

AE Works Marks 18 Years in Business with Executive Leadership Structure Evolution Focused on the Future

AE Works, the largest Pittsburgh-headquartered architecture firm, celebrates its 18th year by strategically evolving its executive leadership structure to reinforce role clarity and support sustained growth. Michael Cherock transitions to CEO & Chairman; Dave Andros is named President & COO; Mark Bertsch remains CFO; and Rick Witt, Jr., Sara Lappano, and Carly Khanna each assume Executive VP roles focused on client strategy and brand engagement.

“These role evolutions reflect AE Works’ dedication to clear leadership, continuous innovation, and strategic growth,” said Michael Cherock. “With these strengthened roles, our team is even better equipped to deliver exceptional value and embrace new opportunities.”

Recognized on the Architectural Record 300 and ENR Mid-Atlantic Top Design Firms lists, AE Works provides integrated architecture, engineering, planning + project services for federal, higher-education, healthcare, and commercial clients—making building projects a better value.

Leadership Updates: 

• Michael Cherock, PE moves from Founder, President & CEO to Founder, CEO & Chairman, continuing to focus on long-term vision and fostering innovation across AE Works. 

• Dave Andros is named President & Chief Operating Officer, unifying operational and strategic oversight to enable overall firm project delivery and client service excellence. 

• Mark Bertsch continues as Chief Financial Officer, guiding the firm’s budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning to support sustainable growth. 

• Rick Witt, Jr., AIA is named Executive Vice President, Client Strategy & Engagement / Chief Client Officer, leading client-retention and business development priorities and guiding strategic partnerships. 

• Sara Lappano, PE moves into the role of Executive Vice President, Client Strategy & Engagement, aligning high-level client strategy, relationship management, collaborative problem solving with AE Works’ integrated delivery capabilities. 

• Carly Khanna becomes Executive Vice President, Client Brand Engagement / Chief Brand Officer, overseeing brand strategy, proposal development marketing technology, and content to elevate AE Works in the market.